Waking up in an unfamiliar place is unsettling, but here I am, lying on luxurious silk sheets in a nightgown that isn't mine. This qualifies as bizarre. I throw the covers off and slide my feet onto a plush purple carpet, the softness a stark contrast to the tension in my body. The walls, adorned with antique war paintings, exude a sense of history, while a statue in the corner, locked in battle with its reflection, adds an eerie presence.
A chuckle escapes me as I scan the room. On a small table, a silver platter overflows with fresh fruit, cheese, and cured meats. Though hunger isn't my primary concern, I make a mental note to eat later. First things first—where's the bathroom?
I stride toward a dark oak door, pulling it open to reveal an astonishing sight. The bathroom is massive, with a tub fit for ten, a rainfall shower, and a sink larger than my head. Who knew being kidnapped came with such luxury?
Stripping out of the nightgown, I step into the shower, letting the warm water ease my tension. The steam curls around me as I reach for the neatly arranged shampoos and soaps, indulging in the unexpected comfort. After a thorough wash and shave, I feel refreshed—at least physically.
Just as I wrap a towel around myself, a sharp knock startles me.
"Rose, are you done? We need to discuss important matters!"
My heart leaps. The voice is unfamiliar yet commanding.
"Come out now! I don't have time to waste, for goddess's sake!"
I hesitate but gather my composure. Cracking open the door, I step out, only to lock eyes with a towering lizard-like figure. His expression flickers with surprise before he quickly averts his gaze.
"What happened to your clothes? Why aren't you dressed?" He snatches the comforter from the bed and tosses it to me, his tone exasperated but controlled.
Now adequately covered, I cross my arms. "Who are you?"
"I am Gamma Lior," he states firmly. "And you are the mate of our lord. Your scent confirms it, though something about it is… unusual." He narrows his eyes, as if analyzing me. "I am here to assist you in understanding your role."
I sink into a nearby chair, trying to process his words.
"Our lord has sought his mate for years. His emotions are becoming unstable. As his kind mate, you will not stand alone—you will have five others. Each is a powerful being: a phoenix, a vampire, a Lycan, a dragon, and a demon. They will all vie for your heart, your power, or perhaps even your very existence. Some may not survive, for only the strongest shall remain."
The weight of his words settles over me like a storm cloud.
"You possess great power, a gift from your formidable parents, who have more children as well. The fate of multiple species rests in your hands. You can bring salvation—or destruction."
The enormity of the situation is staggering. I exhale sharply, my mind spinning.
"Can I have some time to think?" I ask, my voice steadier than I feel.
Lior inclines his head in understanding. "Of course." With a polite bow, he steps out of the room, leaving me alone with my thoughts.
I clutch the comforter tightly, my pulse hammering. Mates, power, fate—how did my life turn into this? And more importantly, what am I supposed to do now?